UDHAMPUR: Secretary Tourism Avny Lavasa on Friday reviewed tourism infrastructure and ongoing development projects across the Patnitop Development Authority (PDA) jurisdiction, covering Kud, Patnitop and Sanasar.
During the visit, Chief Executive Officer PDA Rakesh Dubey briefed her on the functioning of the authority, its administrative framework, ongoing initiatives and challenges, besides the roadmap for developing Patnitop and adjoining destinations as sustainable tourism centres.
Lavasa chaired a review meeting with officers and interacted with the authority’s staff, discussing the implementation of the Master Plan, development of a Tulip Garden at Sanasar, eco-tourism initiatives, community events, tourist attractions, waste management, cleanliness and revenue generation.
She reviewed several infrastructure projects, including the upgradation of the stone pathway from Sanasar Bus Stand to Sanasar Lake, pathways at Children’s Park in Patnitop, drainage and solid waste management facilities, Sanasar Golf Course, beautification of Sanasar Lake and Bus Stand, installation of solar streetlights and upgradation of existing high-mast and streetlights. The proposed widening and strengthening of Patnitop’s Circular Road was also discussed.
Emphasising timely execution and quality, the Secretary directed executing agencies to speed up ongoing works by deploying adequate manpower and machinery. She stressed regular monitoring and proper maintenance of tourism infrastructure.
Taking note of encroachments within the PDA jurisdiction, she directed officials to conduct regular monitoring and daily inspections to prevent and check illegal occupation of land.
During her field visit to Sanasar, Lavasa inspected ongoing works related to the nine-hole golf course, bamboo huts, artificial waterfall and musical park pathway, directing the executing agencies to expedite their completion.
She also asked the CEO, PDA, to ensure that public toilet facilities remained functional, clean and properly maintained for tourists and visitors.
Meanwhile, a deputation of ponywala representatives met the Secretary and raised demands, including the provision of sheds and improvement of tracks. Lavasa assured them that their genuine concerns would be examined and addressed on merit.
She was accompanied by SDM Chenani Dr Ranjit Singh Kotwal, AD Tourism Arif Lone and other officers.